Tomato Recall Due to Salmonella Concerns
ATLANTA - An upgraded tomato recall has been issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), affecting consumers across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Initially announced in early May, this recall now falls under a Class 1 designation, which indicates the highest level of severity, warning of potential health risks including death.
The recall involves tomatoes distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, which were sold between April 23 and April 28, 2025, to wholesalers and distributors in the mentioned states. The increase in recall severity stems from information received on April 29 from Southeast Tomato Distributors, which identified potential salmonella contamination linked to tomatoes supplied from Hanshaw & Capling Farms.
A Class 1 recall signifies "a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death,” as defined by the FDA. To date, no illnesses related to this specific recall have been reported.
Details of the Recalled Products
According to the FDA, the affected products include:
- 3-count packages
- 10-pound boxes
- 25-pound boxes
- 60-count 2-layer boxes
In a related matter, another recall involving possible salmonella contamination has affected Ray & Mascari Inc. 4-Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes, sold through Gordon Food Service Stores in various states including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and several others.
Consumer Guidance
The FDA strongly advises consumers who have purchased the recalled tomatoes to refrain from consuming them. Consumers can either return the products to the store where they were purchased for a full refund or safely discard them.
For additional inquiries regarding the recall, customers can contact Jason Breland at (843) 866-7707 or (843) 599-5154 on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella
Salmonella infection can lead to severe and potentially fatal complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may experience symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, typically appearing six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria.
While many recover without medical intervention after four to seven days, those in high-risk categories may face more severe illness requiring medical attention or hospitalization.
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